From 29 November to 1 December 2024, the Quirama Conference Centre in El Carmen de Viboral, Colombia, hosted the XI Interamerican Scout Summit. Leaders, young people, and representatives from 31 National Scout Organizations (NSOs) across the continent gathered under the theme “Shaping Our Path”. This event served as a pivotal moment to review the progress of the Regional Plan 2022–2025 and chart the strategic direction for the Scouting in the years to come, with a strong focus on preparing young people to lead a more inclusive, sustainable, and peaceful world.
Strategic Innovation and Regional Planning
The Summit featured the implementation of a new planning framework aligned with the Strategy for Scouting. An innovative approach, symbolised by the construction of houses representing regional priorities, fostered effective collaboration among participants to define the next strategic steps. This method not only encouraged cohesion but also reinforced the importance of collective action to create meaningful impact.
Best Practices Exchange and Regional Cooperation
A highlight of the event was the exchange of best practices among countries such as Brazil, the United States, Costa Rica, Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela, and Argentina. These initiatives showcased innovation in youth programmes, youth empowerment strategies, brand repositioning, and tools to ensure safe environments.
Previous to the Summit, Caribbean NSOs held a special meeting to address their unique challenges and explore opportunities. This space proved essential for strengthening their capacities and programmes while reflecting on effective ways to support all organizations, underscoring World Scouting’s commitment to inclusivity and adaptability within Scouting.
Signing Memorandums of Understanding: Strengthening Regional Cooperation
As part of the XI Interamerican Scout Summit, two significant moments reinforced collaboration and commitment within the Scout Movement: the signing of Memorandums of Understanding for the JAMCAM 2025 in Colombia and the 4th Interamerican Scout Moot 2026 in Ecuador. These agreements represent not only the dedication of the involved organisations but also the strength of international solidarity and cooperation within World Scouting.
Awards and Recognitions: Celebrating Regional Excellence
A key moment of the Summit was the ceremony to honour the remarkable efforts of National Scout Organisations and distinguished figures within Scouting. These awards, initially presented at the World Scout Conference, were celebrated again in the region as a source of pride and inspiration.
Movimiento Scout de Uruguay received the Intergenerational Leadership Award for its commitment to fostering leadership across all ages. The Barbados Boy Scout Association was recognised with the Growth Award for its exemplary efforts in expanding Scouting’s impact. The centenary of the Boy Scouts Van Suriname was also celebrated, marking a historic milestone for the region. Additionally, a warm welcome was extended to the Antigua and Barbuda Scout Association, which became the 173rd member of World Scouting in November 2022.
During the event, the prestigious Bronze Wolf Award was presented to Leonardo Morales, former Chairperson of the Interamerican Scout Committee, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the global Scout Movement. This highest honour bestowed by World Scouting highlighted the profound impact of his leadership and dedication.
Commitment to the Future of Scouting
Daniël Corsen, Chairperson of the World Scout Committee, delivered an inspiring message during the Summit, emphasising the importance of collective commitment and action within Scouting:
"Every organisation in this room, every leader and every volunteer is part of something greater, and that something is the Scout Movement. Remember, you have friends all over the world—57 million of us—who believe the world can be better than it is today. Thank you for your dedication, your leadership, and for never losing sight of what Scouting can offer young people.”
The XI Interamerican Scout Summit would not have been possible without the hospitality and dedication of the Asociación de Scouts de Colombia, which hosted this important gathering in El Carmen de Viboral. Their excellent organisation and close collaboration with the Interamerican Support Centre, ensured the success of this event, fostering an environment for reflection, learning, and action.
The conclusion of the XI Interamerican Scout Summit marked a renewed commitment to building a future led by young people, equipping them not only to face life’s challenges but also to transform their communities and contribute to a more inclusive, sustainable, and peaceful world.